Page 57 of Chasing Hope

“Not really. Google said self-care helps fight off depression, so I figured a face mask could do me good.”

I click my tongue. “Face masks get rid of depression. Noted.”

“Don’t mock me.” Snatching a jar of something gold and a little sparkly, she plops it in the basket I’m carrying.

“I’m not mocking you,” I say earnestly.

Her eyes lift to mine. “No?”

“I’d never.”

“I can remember a time or two where you made fun of me.”

“Not about this.”

Never about this.

Not when I’m terrified of losing her.

The clouds that were brewing as I walked around the grocery store trying to distract myself from kissing Evie opened up and let out a torrential downpour by the time we stepped outside.

Four blocks have never felt so long.

What was once a brown paper bag full of groceries is now disintegrated in my arms. Evie squeals ahead of me. She gave up trying to shield herself from the rain long ago.

“Where the hell did this storm come from?” she yells out through the howling wind.

My lips part to respond but a booming rumble of thunder beats me to it, one so loud Evie jumps. Another gust of wind comes for us, knocking her back into me. I catch her with an arm around her waist, and a shiver runs down my body—though not one from the cold.

“I got you, it’s just there!” I call out, gesturing with my chin to the apartment complex.

Clasping her tighter to my side, she ducks her head into my chest, making my heart soar.

Now I never want to reach the apartment.

Up ahead, Patrick spots us. Without hesitation, he steps into the storm, a raincoat covering his suit. He dips his chin as he opens the door, having to use two hands instead of one. “Came out of nowhere!” he says by way of greeting, waving us in.

The moment I usher Evie inside, Patrick lets go of the door, the slam joining the booming sound of thunder.

Evie and I stand side by side in the lobby, water dripping off us, my arms laden with soppy wet brown paper and food. I wince at the trail we’re leaving behind. “Sorry about that, Patrick.”

He just waves me off. “Nonsense, it’s just a little water.”

Before I can respond, the lobby is illuminated by a strike of lightning, followed by a rumble so loud it shakes the floor beneath our feet.

Patrick whistles. “Seems like we’re in for a damaging one. Make sure you have everything charged up and patio furniture pulled inside.”

“Yes, of course. Please give me a buzz if you or any of the other residents need an extra hand.”

He dips his chin, a smile on his lips as he turns to Evie, pointing at me with his thumb. “Always offering to do my job, this one.”

I snort before clapping him on the shoulder. “Everyone needs help once in a while.”

“That is true.” Patrick holds out his hand for Evie. “Myname’s Patrick. I’m Matteo’s favorite concierge.” The corner of his eyes crinkle as he smiles.

“Is that right?” Evie asks, quirking a brow as she slides her gaze to me.

As another boom shakes the lobby, Patrick’s smile fades, the deep wrinkles set in his forehead seeming to double. “I’d go on up before it takes a turn for the worse. I’m worried the power will cut soon.”